Question 1

What is the "Fake Armenian Brandy Tasting Tour" scam in Yerevan?

Accepted Answer

Touts near Republic Square and the Cascade approach tourists posing as representatives of a cognac distillery or brandy cooperative, offering a free guided tasting tour to a "partner shop" a short walk away. The shop is unaffiliated with any licensed producer such as Ararat or Noy, and bottles sold during the tasting are overpriced, of uncertain quality, and sometimes counterfeit. Visitors who decline to purchase after the tasting are pressured and in some cases charged an undisclosed "tasting fee" at the door. Book distillery tours — including the ARARAT Brandy Factory on Admiral Isakov Avenue — only through your hotel concierge or the official factory website. Decline all unsolicited street invitations to tastings or "private" brandy shops. Legitimate producers do not solicit tourists on the street.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Tour Guides" scam in Yerevan?

Accepted Answer

Unofficial "guides" approach tourists near major sights and offer cheap tours, then demand much higher fees at the end or steer visitors into commission-paying souvenir shops. Book tours through your hotel or licensed operators only. Confirm the full price before starting.

Tour & Activity Scams in Yerevan

Fake Armenian Brandy Tasting Tour

Fake Tour Guides

Experienced a scam here?